Tuesday 30 April 2019

Trip to Trentham Gardens / Stoke 30-04-2019
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67153Fenton, adj Travers CourtStoke, adj stop P23First Potteries
67656Stoke, adj stop AFenton, Smithpool Road11First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew was also going to Trentham Gardens later on. He spotted a things to do in Manchester centre on today such as the walk and enjoyed the ice cream. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst waiting to go to the day service we saw First Potteries 67654 on a #11 to Newcastle. In the morning Matthew went to Trentham Gardens. We went downstairs and we got in a car. We set off onto Temple Street and right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto City Road and we headed down the road into Stoke. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran down to Hanford. We turned left onto the A34 and we went past the old entrance to Trentham gardens to the roundabout. We turned right at the roundabout and we parked up in the car park. We went into the gardens and we walked to the North West corner. For dinner Matthew had a ham sandwich and a breakout. We walked clockwise around the lake to the lakeside café and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew had a bottle of Coke and a twister. Once we had finished eating we continued around the lake and back to the car. Once we had finished we got back into the car and we set off onto the A34. We headed North and we turned right onto the A500. We ran up to Stoke and we came off onto the A52. We went under the railway line and we followed the A52 and we ran forwards onto Station Road and we saw First Potteries 32630 on a #25 to Keele. We turned right onto College Road and left onto Ashford Street. We turned right onto Stoke Road and we ran up to Snow Hill. We turned left onto the roundabout onto Shelton New Road and we stopped at a car place. we saw First Potteries 37157 on a #101 to Stafford. When we had finished we ran back towards Shelton on Shelton New Road and at the roundabout we turned right onto Stoke Road. We turned left at Station Road and we ran forwards onto the A52. At the roundabout we turned left onto City Road and we went under the railway line. We ran up the hill into Fenton and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left into Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew chilled out in his room. He used his computer and watched buses out of the window. We saw First Potteries 65033 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 65033 in Fenton
Also seen was grey minibus SB66 FZW going towards Stoke.


SB66 FZW in Fenton
Another vehicle seen was E-zec patient transport YJ16 GHN also going towards Stoke.


E-zec patient transport YJ16 GHN in Fenton
Afterwards we saw Lucky Seven BX62 FYP heading towards Stoke.


Lucky Seven BX62 FYP in Fenton
Another vehicle seen was First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67153 in Fenton
Afterwards we saw D&G Bus 142 on a #1 to Park Site.


D&G 142 in Fenton
Before tea Matthew went out to do some shopping. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We picked a few things up at the Co-operative food and we turned left Temple Street We walked back to the residential unit. Near to the unit we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. For tea Matthew had a jacket potato with beans followed by cake. Later on Matthew went to Stoke on the bus. We set off on foot onto City Road and we walked down to the stop by Travers Court. The bus appear and it was First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off down City Road and we ran forwards onto the A52 were we saw First Potteries 63174 on #11 to Hanley. We ran under the railway line and we went over the A500. We ran into Stoke along Church Street and we got up and got off the bus. We then walked down the road to The Wheatsheaf. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a glass of Coke. Highlights of the bus sightings included First Potteries 65033 on a #11 to Hanley, ABC Supreme EN14 CHF & First Potteries 67156 on a #21 to Hanley. After we had finished in the pub we walked outside to the bus stop. A few minutes later First Potteries 67656 appeared on the #11 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Church Street and over the A500. We went under the railway line and forwards onto City Road. We ran up the hill and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over the road and we walked between the flats onto Temple Street and back top the residential unit. Back in his room Matthew used his computer and watched TV in his room. Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Saturday 27 April 2019

Trip to Wolverhampton / West Bromwich 27-04-2019









BusFromToServiceOperator



4333Wolverhampton BSDudley BS82NX West Midlands
21224Dudley BSWest Bromwich BS74ARotala Diamond
4259West Bromwich BSPheasey, Hillingford Avenue5NX West Midlands
6730Pheasey, Hillingford AvenueAldridge, Opp Shopping Centre997NX West Midlands
6715Aldridge, Adj Shopping CentreWalsall St Pauls BS7NX West Midlands
6772Walsall St Pauls BSWolverhampton BS529NX West Midlands


Today we decided to re-visit Wolverhampton. Mum was going to Wolverhampton an a night out with friends and as we hadn't been there for a while we decided to go to Wolverhampton for our bus trip too. We did no research for the trip other than to check the weather. The forecast was for rain showers as the back end of Hurricane Hannah passed over the UK. Matthew got up around 10:00 and toast and orange juice for breakfast. mum came home from work around 10:45. After getting ready we set off onto the A5035 just after 12:00. We crossed over the railway line into Trentham and we ran to the end before joining the Northbound A34. We turned left onto Whitmore Road and we ran up to the A519. We turned right onto the A519 before joining Southbound M6. As we travelled down the M6 we saw an unidentified grey coach, and unidentified white coach, 2 x unidentified The Travellers Choice coaches, an unidentified National Express liveried coach (#590), white minibus NA14 FSU, an unidentified Ellison's coach & blue minibus DE54 NSS. Just after junction 13 as we got to the 4 lane section, we were passed by Edwards coach BN63 NYW.


Edwards BN63 NYW on the M6
We continued down towards junction 12. We left the M6 and we turned left onto the A5. We ran towards Cannock and we stopped at the Truckers Rest truck stop. Matthew went to the toilet and mum ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we continued towards Wolverhampton. We set off Westwards along the A5 and we re-joined the Southbound M6 and we passed an unidentified Eavesway coach going the other way. We came off at junction 13 and we ran Southwards down the A460. We ran down to the A460 and we joined the Westbound M54. We ran to the next junction before we joined the Southbound A449. We ran for approximately 3 mile to the edge of town and we turned left onto onto the ring road and we ran around to the A41 roundabout. We turned right onto Bilston Street and we turned right onto Market Street. We turned right onto Queen Street and at the end we turned right onto Pipers Row. We turned right into Tower Street and we stopped briefly to get out of the car. We said goodbye to mum and we walked across Pipers Row and into the bus station. We had a look around to see what we could catch. We saw Travel De Courcey's National express liveried coach MD28 on a #210 from Gatwick Airport.


Travel De Courcey MD28 in Wolverhampton bus station
We carried on around the bus station and we spotted National Express West Midlands 4333 on a #82 to Dudley.


NX West Midlands 4333 in Wolverhampton bus station
We decided to do this bus so we got on it and brought nBus Star Day tickets at £4.20 each. We went upstairs and the rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4333.


Inside NX West Midlands 4333
The bus set off out of the bus station and onto Pipers Row. We cross over the Bilston Island onto the A454 and we headed Eastwards out of town. We turned left onto Old Heath Road and we headed into Moseley We turned right onto Deansfield Road and right onto Deans Road. We re-joined the A454 for a short while before turning right into Moseley Road. We ran through Portobello before turning right onto Willenhall Road. We ran to the end and we turned left into the A41 in the centre of Bilston. We turned right into Hall Street and then we entered Bilton Interchange. Across the road we saw Bilston Radio Cars minibus RO08 KBJ near to their base. After a brief stop in Bilston Interchange, we went Southwards onto the A41. We turned right onto Loxdale Street and over the tram line, going forwards onto Salop Street. We trundled through undulating housing estates full of near identical semi-detached houses and we went over the railway into Coseley. We stopped in the village briefly and we crossed a dual carriageway and we went through a small village called Roseville and we travelled South again through yet another housing estate of semi-detached houses. Eventually we joined a main road and we went South-Westwards into Dudley town centre. We turned right into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew visited the toilet. We had a quick walk around to we what we could catch. We saw Travel De Courcey National Express liveried coach MD38 on a #420 to London.


Travel De Courcey MD38 in Dudley bus station
As we considered what to do we spotted Rotala Diamond Mellor bodied minibus 21224 go on layover.


Rotala Diamond 21224 in Dudley bus station
We spotted that it was about to work a #74A to West Bromwich so we decided to do this bus. A few minutes later the bus pulled onto it's stand and we flashed the nBus Star day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and along Birmingham Street and we crossed over B4171 onto Hall Street. We ran through the Kate's hill estate and we ran up Watsons Green Road and left onto Highfield Road. We turned right onto Corporation Road and left onto Burn's Lane. We turned left onto the A4123 and right onto Burnt Tree. We ran through Dudley Port and under the railway line near to the station. We turned right into John's lane and we ran through the small estate to the South of the A461 before re-joining the main road. We continued Eastwards and we saw Philips minibus YK18 GXM. We turned right into Great Bridge Street and afterwards left into Asda. We ran around the Asda car park and to the bus stop before turning left onto Great Bridge Street. We turned right onto Charles Street and at the end we turned right onto Pheonix Street. We ran forwards onto the B4166 and we turned left onto Albion Road. We turned left onto Brandon Way and we crossed Greets Green Road onto Claypit Lane. We turned right onto Turner Street and left onto Harwood Street. We turned right onto Baker Street and left onto Dartmouth Street. We turned right onto High Street and right onto St Michael Street past the bus station. We turned left onto West Bromwich Ringway and we entered the bus station from the South side. Once off the bus we took a few pictures. We saw National Express West Midlands 4244 on layover in the bus station.


NX West Midlands 4244 in West Bromwich bus station
We went to the toilet and we looked for a bus that we could catch to go North or East. As we headed back to the stands to buses in that direct Matthew spotted required National Express West Midlands 4259 on a #5 to Sutton Coldfield.


NX West Midlands 4259 in West Bromwich bus station
We decided to do that bus so we waited for the driver to ready the bus for service. We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus Star tickets to the driver before we went upstairs. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto the West Bromwich Ringway and right onto St Michaels Street. We ran past the college and we crossed over the A41 on All Saints Way. The road turned to the right and we ran out into a more open route before crossing over the M5 we continued Eastwards for around a mile and into Great Barr. After crossing the A34 we went under the M6 and up the hill into Pheasey. The bus turned left at the roundabout and we got up and got off the bus. once off the bus Matthew decided he wanted to visit a shop. We brought a can of Cherry Coke and a few chocolate bars and Matthew also had a raspberry flavoured slushie. Once we had paid for the stuff we walked back to the stop on Beacon Road. Whilst we waited for our bus we saw National Express West Midlands 4275 on a #5 to West Bromwich.


NX West Midlands 4275 in Pheasey
Whilst we waited Matthew had his slushie as well as the can of Cherry Coke. He also ate a Milky Way. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. It was required National Express West Midlands 6730 on a #997 to Walsall.


NX West Midlands 6730 in Pheasey
We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus Star Day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture of the inside of National Express West Midlands 6730 before we sat down.


Inside NX West Midlands 6730
We set off up Beacon Road and at the roundabout we turned right onto Collingwood Drive. We turned left onto Hillingford Avenue and forwards onto Frampton Way. We turned right onto Doe Bank Lane and at the end we turned left onto the A4041. At the next roundabout we turned left onto Aldridge Road. We turned left onto the B4151 and at the next roundabout at at the next roundabout we turned right onto the B4154. We ran Northwards for around 1/4 of a mile and we turned left onto Barr Common Road. At the next junction we veered right onto Birmingham Road up to Pool Green. We turned right onto the A454 and we turned right into Portland Road. We veered left onto Anchor Road and we stopped in Aldridge town centre where we got up and got off the bus. once off the bus we crossed over an stood at the stop for a Walsall bound bus. Matthew turned down required National Express West Midlands 4603 on a #7A to Walsall and decided he wanted to go to the toilet. We headed off to the pub and Matthew sued the facilities. Afterwards he had a glass of Coke. Once he had finished his drink we headed outside and we met up with uncle Dave again. We saw required National Express West Midlands 4601 on a #7A to Castleford and a few minutes later we saw National Express West Midlands 6715 on a #7 to Walsall.


NX West Midlands 6715 in Aldridge
We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus Star Day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture of the inside of National Express West Midlands 6715 before we sat down.


Inside NX West Midlands 6715
We set off along Anchor Road and we ran forwards onto Portland Road. We turned left onto the A454 and we ran South-Westwards towards Walsall. It had now gone dark and was hard to see the passing buses. After a couple of miles we turned left onto the A461 and we headed Southwards. We crossed the A4148 and we ran forwards onto Lichfield Street. We continued onto Bridge Street and into the centre of town and we ran around the South side of the bus station and entered the bus station from the West side. When we got into the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We had a walk around and we took a few bus pictures before we caught the bus to Wolverhampton. We walked onto Hatherton Road and we saw Arriva Midlands 3740 on layover in between runs on the #3 to Cannock.


Arriva Midlands 3740 in Walsall
We stood at the entrance of the bus station and we saw National Express West Midlands 6772 on a #529 to Wolverhampton.


NX West Midlands 6772 in Walsall bus station
We walked down to the bottom end of the bus station and we waited for the bus to be readied for service. Once the bus was ready we got on the bus bus we flashed the nBus Star Day ticket to the driver for the final time today before we went upstairs. The bus set off out of the bus station and we ran past the Crown Wharf shopping centre along Wolverhampton Street. We ran forwards on to the A454 and we ran the 1/2 mile or so to the motorway. We crossed the M6 and we ran forwards onto the B4464. We ran through Willenhall and we re-joined the A454 near to Portobello. We ran the last couple of miles into Wolverhampton and we joined the anti-clockwise ring road at Bilston Island and we entered the bus station off the ring road. Once off the bus we headed outside the bus station for mum to pick us up. Mum arrived and we got in the car where she had sausage rolls waiting for us and a can of Irn Bru. We headed around the one way system and we joined the anti-clockwise ring road. We ran around to the A41 and we ran out of town to the hotel where mum way staying for the night. Once we had dropped her off we set off onto Albert Road. We turned left onto Clifford Street and we ran forwards onto Hunter Street. We turned left onto Hordem Road and right onto Aldersley Road. We ran up to Oxley and we joined the Northbound A449. We stopped at a petrol station and whilst there we saw AT Brown coach P27 ATB. We continued Northwards up the A449 under the M54 and a few miles North we turned right onto the A5. At the roundabout we joined the Northbound M6 and we headed through Staffordshire. As we travelled Northwards we saw an unidentified Plymouth City Coaches coach, an unidentified P&D Coaches coach, an unidentified Eagle's of Bristol coach, Target Travel P4 FTC, an unidentified Dan's Luxury Travel coach, an unidentified white coach and an unidentified silver Tri axle coach. We came off the M6 at junction 15 and we ran Northwards up the A500 to Sideway. We turned right at the roundabout and we joined the Eastbound A50. We came off the A50 at Longton and we ran up to Z Carz to see what we could see. There was nothing on the spare ground as expected so we turned left onto Willow Row. In the corner of the yards was Z Carz Mercedes minibus LV52 TZY.


Z Carz LV52 TZY in Longton
Also in the yard was Z Carz minibus Peugeot YJ62 LSX.


Z Carz YJ62 LSX in Longton
Another vehicle seen in the yard was Z Carz SORN minibus YE52 UZX.


Z Carz YE52 UZX in Longton
We turned around and got back onto the A50 and we went Westwards to Heron Cross. We turned left onto Blurton Road and we ran through Blurton. We ran forwards onto Church Street and we turned right into Beaconsfield Drive. We got home just after 19:45. For a late tea bangers and mash with carrots followed by jam filled shortbread biscuit. We did an e-mail and we wrote some of the Blog. Matthew went to bed around 00:00.... Mark.

Friday 26 April 2019

Trip to Fenton / Newcastle 26-04-2019









BusFromToServiceOperator



DY08 FFXFentonVivian Road, FentonCharterShelton Care Group
DY08 FFXVivian Road, FentonFentonCharterShelton Care Group
65706Fenton, adj Travers CourtStoke, Stop P11First Potteries
32639Stoke, Stop PNewcastle, Opp Cherry Tree PH25First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. he was going to see Grandma later on and going to the pub and returning to Blurton for a long weekend. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Around 09:00 Matthew went downstairs and set off to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
In the morning Matthew did some baking. He made chocolate cake. For dinner Matthew went out to fetch dinner. Transport for the trip was Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. We ran forwards onto King Street and we turned left onto Park Street. We turned right onto Vivian Road and parked up. After stopping to get the food, we returned to the day centre on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off along Vivian Road and we turned right onto Wallis Street. We turned right onto At Matthews street and right onto Fenpark Road. We turned left onto Park Street and right onto King Street. We ran forwards onto City Road and we turned left into Glebedale Road and back to the day centre. Once back at the day centre Matthew ate his dinner of sausage chips and gravy. In the afternoon Matthew walked to the pub. We set off onto Christchurch Street we saw Stanton's of Stoke FJ13 CUV. We went into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a glass of Coke. Once we had finished in the pub we walked back to the residential unit. We set off onto Clifton Street and we turned right onto Marlborough Street. We turned right onto Evelyn Street and we walked through onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and waited in his room for me to come and pick him up. I turned up around 14:30 and Matthew got ready to go to Blurton for the weekend. Once we were ready we went downstairs and we set off on foot onto City Road. We waited at the bus stop by the flat for a bus towards Stoke. Whilst we waited we saw D&G 37 on a #1 to Meir. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 65706 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 65706 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 65706 in Stoke before it continued towards Newcastle.


First Potteries 65706 in Stoke
Once off the bus we waited for the next bus towards the hospital. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 32639 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 32639 in Stoke
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off along Church Street and off up the hill along Hartshill Road. We passed the Noah's Ark pub and Just after the pub we turned left by the Co-operative Food store and we headed to the hospital. As we travelled through the hospital we saw First Potteries 32634 on a #25 to Hanley. We bounced our way through the hospital grounds over the severe speed bumps and we joined the North bound A34. A couple of stops up the road we got up and got off the bus. once off the bus we walked up the hill to Grandma's house. At Grandma's Matthew had toast and a can of Irn Bru and some toast and he used her computer. When it was time to go we went to the pub in the car via uncle Dave's house. We set off just after 17:30 and we set off onto Victoria Street. We turned left onto the A34. We turned left onto the Avenue and we ran to the end. Due to roadworks we decided to turn left onto the A52 and head towards Newcastle. At the roundabout we turned sharp right onto Shelton New Road. We ran down to Cliffe Vale and we joined the Southbound A500. We ran through Stoke and we came off the A500 and went up into Fenton to pick up uncle Dave. We set off once again down to the A500 and we turned left onto Church street. We ran around the one way system onto Fleming Road and right onto Campbell Place. We turned left onto Church Street and headed uphill. We once again decided to avoid Hartshll and the roadworks so we turned right onto Shelton Old Road. We joined the Northbound A500 and we ran up to the next junction. We joined Shelton New Road and we passed Arriva Midlands 3691 on a #164 to Hanley. We ran up to the roundabout and we ran forwards onto George Street. We ran down the hill into Newcastle and we turned left into Barracks Road. We ran past the bus station and we saw First Potteries 67662 on a #72 to Clayton and First Potteries 43877 on a #11 to Hanley. We turned left onto the Southbound A34 and we ran through Trent Vale and to the pub. We walked into the pub and sat down out our normal tables. Matthew had a brunch with oatcakes followed by toffee sponge pudding with custard. Whilst we ate highlights of the passing buses included First Potteries 32633 on a #101 to Hanley, First Potteries 63101 on a #22 to Longton and D&G 37 running out of service back to the depot. Once we had finished eating we set off We carried on along the A34 through Hanford and into Trentham. We turned left onto the A5035 and we crossed over the railway line and into Blurton. We got back around 19:30. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we sorted a few things out. We wrote the Blog and we sent a couple of e-mails. We chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark

Wednesday 24 April 2019

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 24-04-2019
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67159Fenton, adj Travers CourtHanley BS23First Potteries
32627Hanley BSNewcastle BS25First Potteries
119Newcastle BSFenton, Smithpool Road1D&G


Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. He was also going out on the bus later on. Whilst waiting to go to the day service we saw First Potteries 63177 on a #11 to Newcastle. Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. We set off onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Temple Street. Matthew went downstairs and out of the residential unit. We set off on foot towards the bus stop on City Road. Whilst we waited for the bus. We walked down to the bus stop outside Travers Court. A few minutes later the bus to Newcastle appeared and it was dud First Potteries 67159 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67159 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down City Road and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and into the centre of Stoke. After a brief stop we continued around the one-way system onto Elenora Steet and right onto Copeland street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. We went past the railway station ans we turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we saw First Potteries 67640 on a #7A to Biddulph. We entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. we saw First Potteries 37146 on #32 to Uttoxeter. We waited for a bus to Newcastle. A short time later we saw First Potteries 32627 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 32627 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out of the bus station onto john Street and left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and we ran down through Shelton along Regent Road and College Road we saw First Potteries 67155 on a #23 to Hanley. We passed the railway station and we continued forwards onto the A52. We followed the road to the right under the railway line. We crossed over the A500 we saw Intercity LD68 ZZC. entering Stoke town centre. We continued along Church Street onto Hartshill Road and into the centre of Hartshill. We turned left into the Avenue and left again onto Hilton Road before turning right into the City General Hospital. Once through the hospital we turned right onto the A34 and we ran into Newcastle. We crossed the roundabout and we ran up Barracks Road and into the bus station from the South end. Once we got to the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked up Catle Walked and we stopped at Poundland. Afterwards we continued up Castle Walk and we stopped at Home Bargains. We turned left onto Ironmarket and we stopped at the bank at the end. We turned left onto High Street and we stopped at McDonalds. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. Once we had finished we walked down High Street and we turned left into Hassell Street. We returned to the bus station and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. After a short while we saw D&G Bus 119 on a #1 to Meir.


D&G 119 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down towards then back of the bus. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran up to the Jubilee roundabout. We ran onto the A53 and around the one-way system onto the A52. We ran up George Street into Hartshill and we ran down the hill into Stoke town centre. After a brief stop we continued along Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over City Road and we walked across to Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew wen up to his room to chill out and use is computer. He also watched buses out of the window. We saw First Potteries 67651 on a #11 to Newcastle. Later on Matthew went downstairs to do his shopping. Outside we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
We went to do the shopping. transport for the trip was a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off onto City Road and we crossed over and onto Manor Street. At the end of Manor Street we turned left onto Victoria Road and and we stopped at Aldi to pickup Matthew's weekly shop. Once Matthew had finished shopping we returned to the residential unit in Autocabs taxi. We set off up Victoria Road and we turned onto Manor Street. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street past the new building under construction and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back upstairs. For tea Matthew had chicken & rice followed by a Bakewell Tart. Matthew returned to his room to chill out. He watched television and used his computer. later on he had a bath. For supper Matthew had some toast. Matthew went to bed around 23:00... Mark

Tuesday 23 April 2019

Trip to Chell / Hanley 23-04-2019
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67154Fenton, adj Royal OakHanley BS23First Potteries
47520Hanley BSFenton, Victoria Place6First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going out on the bus later on. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. We saw E-zec patient transport SF16 EFR.


E-zec patient transport SF16 EFR in Fenton
In the morning we went for a walk. We went downstairs and we cut through City Road. As we passed the car hire place we saw First Potteries 67158 on a #23 to Hanley. We continued down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and we turned right into the private road and we walked down to the baths. After a quick cafe cup of coke. we headed back to the base on foot. At the end of the private road, We walked onto City Road and we crossed over before turning right onto Christchurch Street. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
We went out for dinner by car. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp left onto Victoria Road and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. At the roundabout we went straight onto Lichfield street and we ran up the hill to Hanley. We joined the anti-clockwise ring road. We ran around the ring road and we came off at Town Road. After crossing over the ring road we ran out of town along Town Road and forwards onto the A5272. We continued through Sneyd Green to Smallthorne. We ran over the roundabout and onto High Lane. We stopped at the end and went to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a glass of Coke. For dinner Matthew had a burger and fries followed by a chocolate fudge cake ice cream. We returned back to Fenton by car. We set off along High Lane into Smllthorne and up towards the roundabouts. We turned left onto the A5272 and we ran through Sneyd Green. We carried on to Birches Head. We continued onto Town Road and we joined the clockwise ring Road. We ran around to Lichfield street and we went down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed over the roundabout and we ran up Victoria Road into Fenton. At the top of the hill we turned sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and back to the day centre. In the afternoon Matthew went out to Hanley on the bus. We set off out of the day centre on to Christchurch Street. We waited for the bus to appear and a few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. The bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67154 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67154 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Christchurch Street we saw First Potteries 67152 on a #23 to Newstead. We turned left onto City Road. and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and we saw First Potteries 63097 on a #11 to Hanley. over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and into the centre of Stoke. After a brief stop we continued around the one-way system onto Elenora Street and right onto Copeland street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. We went past the railway station and we turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street before we turned right onto John Street where we got up and got off the bus. We saw First Potteries 67665 on a #7A to Biddulph. We set off onto Lichfield Street and and went forwards onto Tontine Street. We walked through Tontine Square to the Intu Potteries shopping centre. We had a walk around the shops and afterwards we walked through Tontine Square onto Tontine Street. We walked onto Lichfield Street and back to the bus station. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 37157 on a #32 to Uttoxeter. We waited for a bus towards Fenton. After a short while the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 47520 on a #6 to Coalville.


First Potteries 47520 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Longton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. Whilst we waited for departure time we saw First Potteries 67650 on a #3 to Crewe. We set off out of the bus station onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto the ring road and we turned right onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road. and we ran up the hill into Fenton. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off on foot up Victoria Road and we went sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and back to his room. Matthew used his computer and watched television in his room. Later on Matthew went out. We went downstairs and we cut through onto City Road. We walked up towards the health centre and we went in. Afterwards we walked onto Glebedale Road and we walked along Baker Street. We turned right onto Christchurch Street. We stopped at the Co-op and Matthew had a bottle of Coke. We returned onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. Matthew drank his bottle of Coke and used his computer. Matthew went out tea. We went downstairs and got in a car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road and we ran down to the A52. We went under the railway line and over the A500 into Stoke. We went around the one-way system and up Hartshill Road and into Harshill. We turned left onto the Avenue and we ran to the end where we turned right onto the A34. We turned off the A34 and we stopped at Grandma's house. Matthew went on the computer and had a can of Irn Bru. For tea Matthew had shepherds pie followed by treacle tart and custard. Staff came to pick Matthew up in the car and Matthew said goodbye to Grandma and we set off onto Occupation Street. We turned onto the A34 and we ran past Newcastle. Near to the KFC we turned left onto Robertson Avenue. We crossed forwards onto Douglas Road and forwards to the disco. We spent some time at the disco. Matthew went to the toilet and a glass of coke. After doing some dancing we returned to Fenton. We ran back to the A34 and we went South into Newcastle. We turned left onto the A527 and we ran up to the Jubilee Roundabout. We ran around the one-way system onto George Street and we ran into Hartshill. We ran down Hartshill Road into Stoke and we went around the one-way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 and onto City Road before going under the railway line. We climbed the hill and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Monday 22 April 2019

Trip to Newcastle / Bradwell 22-04-2019









BusFromToServiceOperator



65027Stoke, stop RNewcastle BS25First Potteries
65728Newcastle BSTrentham Gardens Poachers Cottage PH101First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going out on the bus and going out for tea with mum and me. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. We saw Afford rent-a-car KV19 NUH.


Afford rent-a-car KV19 NUH in Fenton
Around 09:00 we went downstairs and out of the unit. We set off outside and we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX outside the residential unit.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
We set off on foot onto Temple Street. At the end of Temple Street we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto City Road and we saw D&G 165 on a #23 to Blurton. We continued down the hill and under the railway line before we crossed over the A500 and went into Stoke town centre. On Church Street we saw First Potteries 63100 on the #25 to Hanley. We turned left into Campbell Place and we visited Heron Foods. Matthew brought a bottle of Coke. Once we had finished we walked along Campbell Place past the old Nat West Bank which is going to be new headquarters. We turned right onto Church Street and we waited for a bus towards Newcastle. A short time later we saw First Potteries 65027 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 65027 in Stoke
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Church Street and off up the hill along Hartshill Road. We passed the Noah's Ark pub and Just after the pub we turned left by the Co-operative Food store and we headed to the hospital we saw E-zec patient transport YJ16 GHB. We bounced our way through the hospital grounds over the severe speed bumps and we joined the North bound A34. We went around the roundabout at the bottom end of Newcastle and we turned right onto Barracks Road before entering the bus station from the Southern end. Once off the bus we saw First Potteries 67157 on a #4A to Hanley. We waited for a bus to Trentham Gardens. A short time later we saw First Potteries 65728 on a #101 to Stafford.


First Potteries 65728 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Trentham Garden before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we ran down through Trent Vale and into Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went to across the road the road and into Trentham Gardens. We went through the main gate and down to the edge of the lake. Afterwards we cam back to the entrance and we stopped for something to eat in the entrance cafe. Matthew had an egg sandwich and a bottle of Coke. Once he had finished we called for a taxi. We got in the Lucky Seven taxi and we set off from outside the retail village and out of the main gate. We crossed over the A34 onto the A5035. We crossed over the railway line into Blurton and we turned left onto Stanley Matthews Way. We ran past the BET365 stadium and we saw First Potteries 37157 waiting for take passenger back to Stoke after the match. we crossed over the A50 and joined the Eastbound carriageway. We came off the A50 at Heron Cross and we turned left onto Blurton Road. We went through the lights onto Heron Street and we ran forwards onto Station Bridge Road. We turned left onto Christchurch Street. and we stopped at the end where we stopped. We walked onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to wait for us to come and pick him up. Whilst waiting we saw Lucky Seven PY15 GTF heading towards Hanley.


Lucky Seven PY15 GTF in Fenton
We came to pick Matthew up and we went out for tea. We went downstairs and we got in the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto City Road and we headed down the road into Stoke. We ran under the railway line and we crossed the A500. We ran forwards onto Church Street and we ran around Stoke town centre on the one-way system. We turned left onto Lonsdale Street and we turned right onto Flemming Road. We turned right onto Campbell Place and we ran forwards onto Church Street. We ran forwards onto Hartshill Road and we went up the hill through Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill onto the one-way system. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A527. We ran through May Bank. We continued into Wolstanton and at the top of Porthill Bank. We ran forwards into Bradwell and we stopped at the pub. We stopped at the pub and Matthew went to the toilet. For tea Matthew had hunters chicken and fries washed down with a glass of Coke. For dessert Matthew had chocolate fudge cake and ice cream. When it was time to go we returned to the car for the trip back to Fenton. We set off onto Bradwell Lane and we crossed over the roundabout and ran through Wolstanton. We ran along the A527 through May Bank. We continued along the A527 and into Newcastle. We turned left onto Ryecroft and right onto Barracks Road. We ran past the bus station and we saw First Potteries 67152 on a #4A to Kidsgrove. We continued down to the A34. We turned left at the Avenue and we ran up to Hartshill Road. We ran down to Stoke and onto the one way system. We turned right onto Elenora Street and we followed the road around onto Copeland Street. We ran forwards onto Glebe Street and we followed the one way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 onto City Road and we went under the railway line. We ran up the hill into Fenton and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left into Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went up to Matthew's room and we wrote some of the Blog. Matthew also drank a bottle of Irn Bru. After doing a couple of entries I left and Matthew chilled out in his room watching television and using his computer. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Sunday 21 April 2019

Trip to Bucknall / Joiners Square 21-04-2019
















BusFromToServiceOperator



DY08 FFXFentonBucknallCharterShelton Care Group
DY08 FFXBucknallJoiners SquareCharterShelton Care Group
DY08 FFXJoiners SquareFentonCharterShelton Care Group


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Later on he was going out before having an Easter tea party and Easter egg Hunt. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst waiting for time to got to the day centre Matthew spent time in his room watching buses. We saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX out of the window.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
For dinner he had chicken, potatoes and carrots followed by a slice of red velvet cake. After dinner Matthew went to Bucknall. We went downstairs and saw transport for the trip was Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We got on the bus and we set off onto Temple Street we turned left onto Christchurch Street and crossed over City Road onto Manor Street. We turned left onto Victoria Road we saw First Potteries 67157 on a #6 to Coalville. and we ran down to Joiners Square. We turned right onto the A52 and we ran towards Bucknall. At Limekiln we turned right to follow the A52 we saw First Potteries 67633. We turned left onto Finney Green and we parked up. after spending some time at the gardens we returned to Fenton on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Finney Green and we turned right onto the A52. At Limekiln Light we followed the A52 to the left. At Joiners Square we stopped and got off the bus. We went into a shop and Matthew brought a bottle of Coke. We got back on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX and we headed back to Fenton. we turned left onto Victoria Road and we ran up the hill into Fenton. We turned right onto Manor Street and right onto City Road. We turned left onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and wait for us to pick him up. Whilst he waited he used his computer and watched buses out of the window. We saw Lucky Seven SJ13 DLE going towards Longton.


Lucky Seven SJ13 DLE in Fenton
Later on Matthew went downstairs and went outside in the garden. Matthew had his tea outside in the garden. For tea Matthew had a buffet tea including Chicken, sandwiches and rice crispy cakes. Matthew had a bottle of Coke. After tea Matthew went around the garden and looked for Easter Eggs. Matthew found a large chick balloon that had been planted in the kitchen.


Easter Chick in Fenton
After some hunter Matthew came across a small chocolate egg that had been hidden in the garden.


Easter Egg in Fenton
Matthew went upstairs to chill out in his room. Later on he went out to have something to eat. We went downstairs and we got in a car. We set off onto Temple Street and and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. we turned right onto Station Bridge Road and we ran forwards onto Heron Street. We turned right onto Grove Road and we ran back into Fenton. We went forwards onto Wheildon Road and under the railway line. We joined the Northbound A500 and we ran through Stoke and Etruria. We came off the A500 and Longport and we turned right on the roundabout onto the A5271. We ran up to Trubshaw Cross and we turned left onto Davenport Street. We stopped at the pub at the top of the road. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a glass of Coke. When we had finished we returned to Fenton by car. We set off down the A5271 and we turned right onto Scotia Road. We ran through Burslem and Cobridge and to the edge of Hanley. We crossed over the roundabout and we ran onto Hope Street. We turned right onto New Hall Street and left onto Marsh Street. We turned left onto Trinity Road and left onto Stafford Street. We ran forwards onto Quadrant Road and under the shopping centre. We crossed the ring road on Town Road and we turned right onto the clockwise ring road. We ran around to the bus station and we turned left onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road onto City Road. City Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We walked back into Temple Street and into the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to watched television and use his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Saturday 20 April 2019

Trip to Winsford / Sandbach 20-04-2019









BusFromToServiceOperator



766Adderley Green, First bus depotFord's of WinsfordCharterPMT
2612Winsford, Town BridgeMiddlewich, St Michael's Way37AArriva NW&W
3159Middlewich, Croxton LaneSandbach, o/s Common37AArriva NW&W
2611Sandbach, o/s CommonHaslington opp Oakland Avenue37Arriva NW&W
67648Haslington nr Oakland AvenueKidsgrove, Gloucester Road3First Potteries
65732Kidsgrove, Adj St Johns RC Primary SchoolHanley BS4AFirst Potteries
67633Hanley BSAdderley Green, First bus depot11First Potteries


Today Matthew was in residential and we were going to take him out for the day. Matthew had expressed a wish to go and see POPS double decker 766 at Winsford for it's booked attendance at the Ford's of Winsford 60th anniversary event. I contacted a senior member off POPS and asked if it would be possible for us to travel up on the bus and they agreed that we could. Matthew got up around 06:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. I came to pick him up just before 07:30 as the booked departure time from the bus garage was 07:50. Matthew got ready and we went downstairs to the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Baker Street and left onto Glebedale Road. We turned right onto City Road and we saw D&G Bus 27 running out of service. We ran forwards onto King Street and through Foley into Longton. We went under the the railway line into Market Street and we turned left onto Anchor Road. We went up the hill and down the other side into Adderley Green. We turned left by the bus garage and at the next roundabout we turned left and headed into the estate. We parked up next to the publice footpath and we walked up the the back end of the bus garage. We saw new arrival First Potteries 65692 parked up at the back of the garage. We walked along the path at the side of the garage and to the bus stop on the A5272 outside the front of the garage. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching, and as expected it was preserved PMT 766.


PMT 766 in Adderley Green
We got on the bus and we were greeted by the senior POPS member. The bus was empty except for him and the driver so we were able to sit where we wanted to. We went upstairs and Matthew took a picture inside PMT 766.


Inside PMT 766
We set off along the A5272 and we headed into Bentilee. We passed Free Spirits FJ55 PVY parked up at the side of the road. We continued forwards into Bucknall. We joined the A52 and we ran up to Limekiln traffic lights. We ran forwards onto the A5272 and we followed it to the left and through Northwood. We continued through Birches Head and Sneyd Green. We stopped briefly by Central Forest Park and we continued up to Smallthorne roundabouts. We ran forwards onto High Lane and we ran to the end. At the roundabout we turned left onto the A527. We ran through Turnhurst and Pitshill down to the North end of Tunstall. We turned right onto the A50 and we headed through Sandyford into Kidsgrove. We crossed the A34 and we ran up to Church Lawton. We followed the A50 to the right and we veered left onto the A533. We ran through Rode Heath and we crossed over the M6 near to the Sandbach Services. We ran around the South Side of Sandbach town centre and continued along the A533 through Elworth Past Sandbach railway station. We ran alongside the canal into Middlewich town centre and we turned left onto the A54. We ran through the town centre and around the one-way system. and Westwards along the A54 out of town. We crossed over the railway line by Winsford railway station and we continued to the bottom of town. At the main roundabout we went forwards onto New Road. It must have been a wrong turning because after about 1/2 the driver turned the bus around. There was not a great deal along this road except a few industrial units and what appeared to be a virtual rock salt quarry. We returned to the big roundabout and we turned left onto the A5018. At the next roundabout we turned left onto Weaver Valley Road. We arrived at the Ford garage and there were thousands of cars! A representative of the garage came out and guided the driver backwards through a very narrow gate. We reverse up to the main building and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of PMT 766.


PMT 766 in Winsford
Once off the bus we had a look around at the other cars and Matthew used the toilet. We made arrangement with the POPS member that we would either hang around for 8 hours until the end of the day or we would make our own way back and message him if we no longer required to return on the bus. We got a POPS membership form and we had a look around at the other vehicles there were on display. These included a few cars from the 1980's and older, a fire engine, the original Ghost Busters car and a F1 racing car. Once we had seen the other vehicles on display we set off out of the garage onto Weaver Valley Road. just past the garage was the entrance to a park. We decided to walk through the park. Just inside the park was a large rock and we decided to sit and have a sausage roll. Matthew also had a drink of Irn Bru. When we had finished eating we carried on through the park. We continued down the path and we came out very near to the main roundabout in town. We crossed the roundabout and over the River Weaver and we walked up onto High Street. We cut across onto the A54 and we waited at the bus stop for the next Southbound bus. Whilst we were at the bus stop we saw Arriva NW&W double decker 4164 on a #29 and Arriva NW&W 3159 on a #31 to Northwich. A short time later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was dud Arriva NW&W 2612 on a #37A to Sandbach.


Arriva NW&W 2612 in Winsford
We got on the bus and we booked Arriva NW&W Day Saver tickets at £5.50 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down the A34 and across the main roundabout onto the Southbound A54. We veered left onto Station Road and we ran along the narrow street towards Middlewich. At the roundabout we ran forwards into Wisford railway station. We did a lap of the car park and back out onto the main road. We turned right onto the A54 and we crossed over the railway line. We continued East for around 2 miles and we came into the West end of Middlewich. We ran around the one-way system and left onto the A54 where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 2612 as it continued towards Sandbach.


Arriva NW&W 2612 in Middlewich
Once the bus had gone we walked up At Michaels way onto Newton Bank. As we got to the food van by the Golden Lion Matthew decided he wanted to go the the toilet. We went to the pub but as it was still early the pub was still closed. We crossed over the road and we went to the Morrison's store. When Matthew had finished we attempted to but a bottle of pop but they hadn't got any bottle in the fridge by the cigarette counter that Matthew would actually drink! We crossed back over the road and we sat down at the food van in the pub car park. Matthew had a bacon bap washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had finished eating we walked onto the A54 on the Western edge of town. We found the bus stop using Google Maps is there was an actual physical stop on either side of the road. We looked at google for the next bus departure and we had around 20 minutes to wait. Matthew sat of the grass verge in the sunshine and chilled whilst we waited for the bus. Around 20 minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was required Arriva NW&W 3159 on a #37A to Sandbach.


Arriva NW&W 3159 in Middlewich
We got on the bus and we Flashed the Arriva Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto A530 and we ranaround the one-way system before turning left onto the A54. After a brief stop at the main bis stop we turned right onto the A533. We turned right onto Long Lane South and right onto Warmingham Lane. We ran through the estate and we turned left Cross Lane. We turned right and we re-joined the Southbound A533. We ran alongside of the canal and into Sandbach through Elworth. We turned left Hightown and at the next roundabout we ran forwards on Congleton Road. We turned right onto The Commons and we ran onto the other side of the triangle where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 3159 before it returned to Northwich.


Arriva NW&W 3159 in Sandbach
Matthew went to the toilet and on the way back we visited McColls. He brought a can of Coke and a couple of chocolate bars as well as a drumstick lolly. We came out off the shop and back to the bus stop. A few minutes later we saw Arriva NW&W 4490 on a #38 to Crewe.


Arriva NW&W 4490 in Sandbach
We let this Crewe bus go and we found a shady spot in which to sit. Matthew had a bottle of Fanta orange and ate his drumstick lolly. Whilst we waited for the next bus to Crewe we saw Arriva NW&W 4489 on a #38 to Macclesfield. I nipped to the toilet and we sat in the shade until just before the bus was due. A few minutes later we saw the bus drive around the common. It was dud Arriva NW&W 2611 on a #37 to Crewe.


Arriva NW&W 2611 in Sandbach
We got on the bus and we Flashed the Arriva Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the common and we went Westwards out of the town onto Crewe Road and through Wheelock. We crossed the A534 and we ran through Wheelock Heath and Winterly, passed the pond. We continued into Haslington and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 2611 as it continued towards Crewe.


Arriva NW&W 2611 in Haslington
Once off the bus we crossed over the road to the stop opposite to wait for the next #3 towards Hanley. Whilst we waited we saw Arriva NW&W 4490 on a #38 to Macclesfield. A few minutes later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67648 on a #3 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67648 in Haslington
We got on the bus and we booked a First Potteries Network Day ticket at £7. We also brought a single to the the Staffordshire border which cost an astonishing £5. We sat down towards the back of the bus and we set off along Crewe Road. We turned right onto Slaughter Hill and we ran forwards onto the B5077. We continued through Radway Green into Alsager and we continued along the B5077. We crossed over the A34 and we ran down the A50 towards Kidsgrove. Once we crossed into Staffordshire we got up and got off the bus. We watched the bus continue Southwards and we walked towards Kidsgrove town centre. As we headed towards the railway bridge uncle Dave pointed out the canal tavern which uncle Dave had taken a picture of on a previous occasion. This prompted Matthew to decided he wanted to visit the pub. Matthew visited the toilet and afterwards we got a glass of Coke and we sat outside on a bench by the canal. Once we had finished the drinks we returned the glasses to the bar and we set off along the canal towards Kidsgrove. We came off the canal onto the car park at Kidsgrove railway station and we walked onto the A50. We turned We walked to the junction and we turned right onto The Avenue. We decided we would catch a 4A to Hanley. There was a bus due in a few minutes so we chilled out at the bus stop until it turned up. A short while later we saw the bus come around the corner and it was First Potteries 65732 on a #4A to Hanley.


First Potteries 65732 in Kidsgrove
We got on the bus and place the First Potteries Newtwork Day tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along The Avenue. We turned left onto Lower Ash Road and right onto Mitchell Avenue. We turned left onto Harecastle Avenue and we turned left onto The A34. We ran up to the traffic lights and we crossed over the junction on Coalpit Hill. We ran forwards onto Swan Bank and we turned left onto Chester Road. We ran around the estate and we Ashenough Road. We turned left onto Monument Road and left onto High Street. We ran down to the roundabout and we ran forwards onto Talke Road. We ran through Red Street and we saw a few minibuses at the community centre including FN08 AXK. We continued down Crackley Bank to Dragon Square and into Chesterton. We ran down the High Street and we turned left onto Wolstanton Road. At the roundabout we joined the Southbound A34. We ran through Milehouse and as we headed towards Newcastle we were passed by Abbott's of Leeming coach XL13 AOL. We turned left onto Liverpool Road and left onto Ryecroft. At the roundabout we turned right onto barracks Road and we entered Newcastle bus station. After a brief stop we set off onto Barracks Road. We crossed the Jubilee Roundabout and onto the A53. We ran into Basford and over the A500. We ran down into Etruria and over the A500. We continued along the A53 and we turned left onto Forge Lane. We ran out along the Lane and we crossed over the canal before we returned back into Etruria along festival Way. We crossed under the A53 onto Etruria Road. We ran into Hanley and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went down to the appropriate stop to wait for a bus to Adderley Green. Matthew had a can of Coke and a chocolate bar whilst we waited for the next bus. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67633 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 67633 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we placed the First Potteries Network Day ticket under the scanner for the final time for today before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto John Street and down the hill past the car park. We turned left onto Bethesda Street and we turned left onto the ring road. We ran around the ring road and we turned right onto Bucknall New Road. We ran down the hill through Limekiln lights. We ran forwards onto the A52 and we turned right onto Dividy Road. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and right onto Dawlish Drive. We ran through the estate and back onto the A5272. We ran up to Adderley Green and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over the road and we walked down the side of the depot. At the back of the depot was First Potteries 67647.


First Potteries 67647 in Adderley Green
Also in the depot was First Potteries 32635 with a damaged bumper and no destination blind.


First Potteries 32635 in Adderley Green
We walked along the footpath behind the housing estate and back to the car. Once at the car we set off through the housing estate and past Lidl onto the A5272. We ran past the bus garage and we turned right onto Anchor Road. We ran up and over the hill and down into Longton. We turned left onto Market Street and we followed the one-way system around onto Commerce Street. At the roundabout we turned right onto The Strand and we ran through Longton and under the railway bridge onto King Street. We ran through Foley into Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We turned left onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew decided he wanted to go to the shop when we got out of the car so he brought a can of Coke and a Milky Way. We returned to the residential unit and we went upstairs to his room. We said goodbye and Matthew chilled out on his computer. For tea Matthew had chicken nuggets and chips followed by a Manchester Tart. Later on Matthew went out. We went downstairs and he got in a car. We set off onto Temple Street amd we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Manor Street. At the end we turned left onto Victoria Road. We crossed over the roundabout at Joiners Square onto Lichfield Street and the taxi stopped near to the bus station. We set off on foot up Lichfield Street and we ran forwards onto Stafford Street. We turned left onto Trinity Street and we turned right onto Foundry Street and we stopped at the pub. Matthew had a drink of Coke and spent an hour or two listening to music and dancing. When it was time to go home we walked along Foundry Street. We turned left onto Trinity Street and right onto Stafford Street. We continued onto Lichfield Street and we called for a taxi. We were picked up by an Intercity taxi. We ran along Birch Terrace and forwards onto Charles Street. We turned right onto Old Hall Street and we turned right onto the ring road. We turned left onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we ran forwards onto Victoria Road. We turned right onto Manor Street and right onto City Road. We turned left onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Later on Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.